Characterization of neutron calibration fields at the TINT's 50 Ci americium-241/beryllium neutron irradiator

International Nuclear Science and Technology Conference 2014

Liamsuwan, T.^1 ; Channuie, J.^1 ; Ratanatongchai, W.^1

Nuclear Research and Development Division, Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (Public Organization), 9/9 Moo 7 Saimoon, Ongkharak, Nakorn Nayok

26120, Thailand^1

关键词: Irradiation facilities;    Monitoring and protections;    Neutron dose rates;    Neutron radiations;    Nuclear analytical techniques;    Nuclear technology;    Radiation protection dosimetry;    Reliable measurement;   

Others  :  https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1742-6596/611/1/012004/pdf
DOI  :  10.1088/1742-6596/611/1/012004

来源: IOP

【 摘 要 】

Reliable measurement of neutron radiation is important for monitoring and protection in workplace where neutrons are present. Although Thailand has been familiar with applications of neutron sources and neutron beams for many decades, there is no calibration facility dedicated to neutron measuring devices available in the country. Recently, Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT) has set up a multi-purpose irradiation facility equipped with a 50 Ci americium-241/beryllium neutron irradiator. The facility is planned to be used for research, nuclear analytical techniques and, among other applications, calibration of neutron measuring devices. In this work, the neutron calibration fields were investigated in terms of neutron energy spectra and dose equivalent rates using Monte Carlo simulations, an in-house developed neutron spectrometer and commercial survey meters. The characterized neutron fields can generate neutron dose equivalent rates ranging from 156 μSv/h to 3.5 mSv/h with nearly 100% of dose contributed by neutrons of energies larger than 0.01 MeV. The gamma contamination was less than 4.2-7.5% depending on the irradiation configuration. It is possible to use the described neutron fields for calibration test and routine quality assurance of neutron dose rate meters and passive dosemeters commonly used in radiation protection dosimetry.